Drivers in the UK are being urged to check their cars for these common issues, as experts say they cause the most MOT failures every year. An annual mandatory checklist of vehicle safety, roadworthiness aspects and exhaust emissions, passing the test is required to allow your vehicle to stay on the road.

September is the peak month for MOT testing in the UK – with an estimated 3.4 million tests due.  

But a shocking 29 percent of vehicles fail on the first try each year, often for easily avoidable reasons.

Experts from Halfords revealed more about these common issues, reminding drivers that it is usually cheaper to get them sorted before you head to the garage for your annual test.

Even the smallest mistakes – such as a blown bulb which can be replaced for less than £1 – can lead to an MOT failure and drivers having to cough up more money.

Lights and signalling 

According to Government data, faulty lights and signalling contribute to 25.28 percent of MOT failures. This means that more than a quarter of all vehicles that fail their MOT have at least one defect related to their lights or signalling systems. Often, this is due to things as simple as faulty bulbs, broken indicators, or non-functional brake lights, all of which can be fixed in a matter of minutes. 

Halfords advises drivers to get into the habit of checking all obligatory lamps such as headlights, side lights, brake lights, indicators, hazard lights, and fog lights by walking around the car with all the lights on. 

It’s also important to not forget number plate lights and reversing lights, which are easily overlooked but essential for passing a vehicle MOT. If drivers notice a bulb is out, they can get a new one fitted for as little as £11 from Halfords. 

Suspension 

This issue contributes to 19.95 percent of MOT failures, the data showed. The failure is caused by factors such as worn-out suspension dampers, damaged springs, or excessively leaking suspension components. 

To avoid these MOT failures, Halfords urges drivers to listen and feel for issues. This includes listening out for unusual noises when driving over bumps, or making note of vehicles feeling unstable or pulling to one side. 

For those who find it more challenging to identify, Halfords offers a free suspension check that helps to catch problems early and prevent unnecessary damage.

Brakes

The figures showed that 16.49 percent of MOT failures are due to brakes. This can include excessively worn brake pads, significantly worn brake discs, brake fluid leaks, or issues with the braking system’s efficiency. 

Paying attention to how brakes feel when driving can be the difference between drivers noticing a failure or not. If brakes feel less responsive, or drivers hear grinding noises, Halfords recommends drivers get them checked. 

It’s also important for drivers to ensure brake fluid is topped up and within the correct range; Low levels can indicate a leak, which needs immediate attention. Halfords offers a free brake check that helps to catch problems early and prevent unnecessary damage. 

Tyres 

Damaged tyres contribute to 12.8 percent of MOT failures. Common issues include insufficient tread depth, cuts, bulges, and general tyre damage. 

Whilst the legal tread depth is 1.6mm, research from Halfords reveals that a vehicle travelling at 60mph with 1.6mm tyres has the same stopping distance as a vehicle travelling at 68 mph with tyres in ‘good’ condition (4mm), effectively meaning they’re speeding. 

As such, Halfords urges drivers to replace tyres when they reach 2-3mm, which can be checked easily by inserting a 20p coin into the tread grooves. If the coin’s outer band is visible, it’s time for new tyres. 

Visibility 

Any factor preventing drivers from seeing the road clearly contributes to seven percent of all MOT failures, this includes everything from cracked or chipped windscreens, worn wiper blades, or faulty washers, all issues that can be easily dealt with.

Exhaust and emissions

Excessive emissions, noisy exhausts, and leaking exhaust systems are contributing factors to 6.44 percent of UK drivers failing their MOT. Halfords advises that a louder-than-usual exhaust system or unusual smells are good indicators of exhaust systems needing a little TLC. Ahead of an MOT, drivers can take advantage of Halfords’ free exhaust and catalytic converter check which alerts drivers to any issues.